This song was originally called 'Streetcorner Portland', and was inspired by that one guy who played trumpet with his begging sign at the west end of the Ross Island Bridge. I never met this man, I only saw him from my car, and I was impressed that he wore a top hat and played trumpet instead of just sitting there.
As years went by, the lyrics modified significantly, but not entirely...it only felt finished when another story was added to my mind, about my chef friend Tim.
Tim worked with me at New Seasons. He was a super-kindly guy. One day, he sprained his hand and started wearing a brace. Then, after a surgery on it, he was out of the kitchen for a good three weeks. Suddenly, one day, we got notice that he had suffered a heart attack, and died alone in his apartment.
I just kept thinking about all the hidden ideas and feelings in someone's eyes as you interact with them day to day, or even just passing them on the street briefly...
"...time spent, I only caught a quick glimpse..."
"...I know what its like to feel lost, to know your one true hope has been tossed..."
One time, at a glance
you would stand a better chance
in the rain
and with your dirty pants
and with the pain
you're on a mission
bet you are wishin
you had more inspiration
As far as legs run
you’re on strike
stuck in a rut feeling so unliked, you here, longing for the fear
to take a hike
so come clean, be clear, and drink to better life
Time, time spent
I only caught a quick glimpse of your eyes and I wonder what's going on
On time, at a glance
you would stand a better chance, with a friend
and with your tight face, and with the bends,
I can't imagine, but I'm guessin', cuz I've been
runnin' down the same stretch, burn bright
Roll up my windows as I roll up this city life
and its cold cold cold...
but only as far as you and me let it go
I know what its like to be lost
to know your one true hope has been tossed
All alone in a crowd no sympathy
No magnetism, no no no no love for me
I saw a flash of myself in your quick eyes,
the way you went inside your head for a brief time
And if its just one flash, I understand
Leaves me wondering what's been happening...
How can I live here?
How can I live away?
credits
from Relics '16-17,
released January 1, 2018
Performed, recorded and mixed by Chris Baron.
Mastered by Ryan Ferris.
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